**Ukrainians Oppose Peace Talks with Russia Without Participation**
A recent poll in Ukraine shows that 91% of people surveyed are against holding peace negotiations between the US and Russia without their participation. The poll was conducted by Ukrainian firm Rating on February 20-21.
The survey comes amid growing concerns in Kyiv and among European allies about Washington’s stance on the war with Russia. In recent days, there have been talks between the US and Russia in Saudi Arabia, which has sparked worries that Ukraine is being left out of the negotiations.
**US President Trump Causes Concerns**
US President Donald Trump further fueled these concerns when he said that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was not essential to negotiating a peace deal with Russia. Trump made this comment on February 21, saying that Zelensky had done a “bad job” in negotiating with Russia.
**Zelensky Rejected Peace Talks Without Ukraine’s Participation**
Zelensky has previously rejected the idea of peace talks being held without Ukraine’s participation. The Ukrainian people have overwhelmingly agreed with him, with only 7% of respondents in favor of not participating in the negotiations.
**Majority Supports Ukraine Participating in Negotiations**
A vast majority (64%) of Ukrainians surveyed support Ukraine participating in direct negotiations with Russia to end the war. However, 32% of respondents were opposed.
**Most Believe Other Countries Must Be Involved**
The poll also found that 81% of respondents believe that negotiations involving other countries are necessary for a realistic solution to end the war. Furthermore, 83% of people surveyed think that Ukraine should agree to a ceasefire only if security guarantees are provided.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com